Kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role

Ngāti Porou Oranga delivers kaupapa Māori health and social services across Te Tairāwhiti, strengthening whānau and supporting positive outcomes for tamariki and rangatahi.

We are seeking a Social Worker in Schools (SWiS) to join our Whānau Oranga team, based at Tolaga Bay Area School and supporting schools from Tolaga Bay to Tokomaru Bay.

This permanent part-time role (20 hours per week) focuses on enhancing the wellbeing and future success of tamariki whose whānau circumstances place them at risk.

You’ll work closely with schools, whānau, Oranga Tamariki, and community partners to build resilience, foster positive relationships, and ensure tamariki and whānau are supported to thrive through strengths-based, mana-enhancing, and Ngāti Porou grounded practice.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako – What we’re looking for

• Recognised Social Work qualification and current NZ Practising Certificate (mandatory)
• Experience as a Social Worker in school or community settings
• Strong networks and ability to engage with schools, whānau, hapū, and iwi
• Knowledge of tikanga Māori and commitment to kaupapa Māori practice
• Skilled in case management, assessments, and group/1:1 programmes
• Excellent communication, organisation, and time management skills
• Collaborative, professional, and confident with reporting and systems
• Full, clean NZ driver licence

Te painga o te mahi tahi me mātou – What we offer

• A values-based, supportive workplace grounded in tikanga Māori
• Ongoing professional development and supervision
• Opportunities to innovate and contribute to whānau ora outcomes
• EAP & wellbeing services
• A collaborative environment where kaimahi are empowered to make a difference

Me pēhea e tono – How to Apply

Submit your Cover Letter and CV outlining your motivation and relevant experience.

Applicants must be eligible to work in Aotearoa, New Zealand and will undergo pre-employment checks (e.g. Police Vetting, Child Checks, Oranga Tamariki vetting, Criminal Record & Medical checks, ID verification, Drug & Alcohol testing).

COVID-19 vaccination (or risk assessment) is required per organisational policy. Employment includes a 60-day trial period under NZ employment legislation.

For the job description or enquiries, email careers@tronp.org.nz

Applications close 5pm, 25 March 2026
Please note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and interviews may be held as applications are received.

‍